The Thohoyandou Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre has come a long way since its humble beginnings in April 1985. When the original building, combined with the church hall, was first established, there were no children and no soldiers. Yet a seed was planted. The officers appointed at the time worked faithfully with the community, building on a solid foundation and bringing unique strategies for growth. Soon five children enrolled, then ten, then thirty.
As numbers increased, the small centre quickly ran out of space. In true community spirit and resourcefulness, the Corps hall was transformed into a classroom during the week and carefully reset for Sunday services. This creative solution served the centre for many years, but the need for proper classrooms and facilities only grew stronger.
Today, the ECD serves 130 children and has even had to turn some away because of space limitations. That season, however, has now changed. With the generous support of SAWSO under the Developing Financial Independence (DFI) program, a brand new building was officially dedicated and opened on 28 September 2025. The new facility includes three classrooms and ablution blocks, making it possible to welcome up to 180 children, each with a dedicated classroom, while the Corps regains full use of its hall.
The Chief Secretary, Lieut Colonel Themba Mahlobo, supported by the Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Lieut Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, opened and dedicated the new buildings. Using Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it,” the Chief Secretary reminded all present that it is because of Jesus Christ that The Salvation Army has opportunities like this to serve communities.
Lieut Colonel Mahlobo expressed gratitude to the donors and those who worked behind the scenes to ensure the project was completed. He also encouraged the Corps, the Corps Officer, and the local officers to use this ministry to children as a way of reaching out to the wider community. He reminded them that this creche is a legacy that can be passed on to future generations.
The Chief Secretary concluded with a prayerful vision: “May this creche be a place where children find Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. May it be a place where words of life are spoken, a place where prayer takes place, and where future teachers, lawyers, pastors and leaders of our nation will be shaped. May we take every opportunity to point our children to Jesus. And no one should say ‘I did this’ – the victory belongs to God alone!”
This milestone reflects the dedication of the Thohoyandou team and staff, currently led by Lieutenant Buyisiwe Hlongwane, as well as the power of partnership and faith. The journey from “no children” to hundreds of young lives being nurtured is a powerful reminder that small beginnings can grow into great legacies.
God is good all the time.
Great Job !